There are a number of theories that attempt to explain individual personality and human behaviour and this forms the basis of a degree in psychology. I obtained a Doctor of Psychology in Western Australia with the aim of becoming a therapist and assisting people who have difficulty with a number of tasks, roles, activities, life phases or relationships that form part of our human condition. My therapeutic training includes psychodynamic therapy as well as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
My therapeutic approach is primarily oriented within an attachment and object relations tradition. Simplistically, this means that the early relationships we had influence who we become, how we function, how we relate to others and how we live life. As a clinical psychologist I am trained to assess, diagnose and provide treatment for a range of mental health difficulties and concerns. I work individually with adults and couples, but do not provide family therapy or therapy with children.
I am particularly interested in sexuality as I believe that it is a fundamental part of our lived experience. Sexual identity, sexual orientation, desire, and all that makes us sexual beings is interrelated and is impacted by our upbringing, education, culture, experiences, relationships, expectations, values, beliefs, and attitudes. Many mental health issues or relationship difficulties can lead to sexual problems and many sexual difficulties can impact our relationships and our emotional health.
I also lecture in the School of Psychology and Social Sciences at Edith Cowan University in their Counselling and Psychotherapy courses. I am a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS), The Australian Clinical Psychology Association (ACPA), The APS College of Clinical Psychologists and the Society of Australian Sexologists WA (SASWA). As a clinical psychologist I am endorsed by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).